10 Romantic Things to Do in Tofino

January 28, 2013

According to Hallmark and the tradition of Valentine’s Day, ‘tis the season for a little extra romance. At the risk of sounding overconfident, when you’re as stunningly beautiful as Tofino, it’s romantic every single day here.

But out of respect for Saint Valentine’s philosophy and the magic of love, we thought we’d shine a spotlight on just how amorous it gets with the following 10 romantic things to do in Tofino (in no particular order):

1. Take a sunset stroll to Pettinger Point.

From the anticipation as you wind through the forest boardwalk to the horizon unfolding in a dance of colour, it may be one of the best places to kiss. (Pssst! Pack plastic cups with your favourite refreshments so you can toast to the view and how lucky you are.)

2. Take a surf lesson together.

Tofino is known worldwide as a surf destination but don’t let that intimidate you. Certified instructors like the cool chicks at Surf Sister offer fun, safe lessons for men and women of all ages and abilities. Wet suits provide insulation from the elements but the chance to catch a wave together is nothing short of hot.

3. Get married!

Hundreds of couples do it here every year. Must be the breathtaking combo of misty surf, Pacific breezes and the feeling that Mother Nature herself is bearing witness. If you need help planning, we’re part of a Beach Wedding Dream Team that can make it blissfully easy.

4. Be total tourists and book a tour.

Go fishing, kayaking, take a floatplane around Clayoquot Sound or heli-tour to Mount Ursus Glacier complete with a picnic lunch. Wilderness tours are also a fun adventure. Plus there’s nothing like a watching a whale breach beside your boat to make you want to break out the hugs and kisses!

5. Eat in.

Imagine the aroma of your favourite comfort food as it simmers in your in-suite kitchen with the fireplace glowing, the sound of the surf, the ‘relax’ playlist on your iPod, and the moon lighting up Cox Bay. How about a cuddle-up movie night? A starry beach walk? Meet you in the hot tub? You get the idea.

6. Eat out.

As many food journalists have attested, Tofino offers some extraordinary culinary talent. From laid-back yet elegant Relais & Chateaux cuisine at The Pointe Restaurant at Wickaninnish Inn, to the best fish taco you’ve ever tasted off the Tacofino food truck, take your pick of authentically west coast restaurants and eateries. Perfect for afternoon nosh or a date night.

7. Take a beach walk…a long one.

(Long being the keyword.) With over 20 kilometers of sand, tide pools and magnificent coastline ready to be explored, grab your camera, each other and just start walking. You never know what you’ll discover.

8. Double up.

Get a couples massage at the award-winning Ancient Cedars Spa at the Wickaninnish Inn then head upstairs and debrief over a cocktail at On the Rocks. And/or book one of our Beach Houses and soak in the views from your soaker-tub for two. (Basically, we just think doubling up is efficient.)

9. Get lost in town.

Like literally park, walk and explore all the artisan stores, galleries, coffee shops and foodie spots in downtown Tofino. From waterfront wharfs to easy-stroll streets, there’s a lot to see and the locals are very friendly.

10. Hug a really big tree.

For a mind-blowing brush with nature, take a walk through the rainforest on one of the many hiking trails. We guarantee you’ll happen upon trees so big that even if both of you try to hold hands around them and touch on both sides, you won’t reach.